Hi Liv
You don't mention what version of Wndows you are using, but, there are a
couple of things you might try. The problem you are describing can be
caused by some types of scumware on your system. In addition to updating
and running your AV, download, install and run the programs below in Safe
Mode with Hidden Files enabled. This will remove the nasty you have and
any others it may have let in the back door. Some malware can replicate
itself repeatedly if not removed properly, so even if you have run some of
the programs listed here, it is important that you run them again according
to the information below so that Windows is not operating to hide any files
'in use' Follow all instructions carefully:
First, Clear the TIF's and empty the recycle bin:
http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/delcache.htm
Also…empty your Recycle bin.
Then do the following:
WARNING>>>> Backup all documents and files before removing any spyware!!
Most importantly, download install and run CWShredder here
http://www.majorgeeks.com/download3019.html
or here
http://www.trendmicro.com/cwshredder/
and About Buster, which searches for hidden .dlls that recreate the malware.
http://www.majorgeeks.com/download4289.html
Then visit these two sites to test for parasites and help basic cleaning:
On-Line Check
http://aumha.org/a/noads.htm
and
Quick-Fix Protocol.
http://aumha.org/a/quickfix.php
Basically, throw everything here at your "infection".
Then download, install and immediately update these three programs before
running:
AdAware SE - Update immediately after installing
http://www.download.com/3000-2144-10045910.html?part=69274&subj=dlpage&tag=button
AdAware Tutorial -
http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/forums/index.php?showtutorial=48
SpyBot S &D - Update immediately after installing
http://www.majorgeeks.com/download2471.html
SpyBot S&D Tutorial -
http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/forums/index.php?showtutorial=43
Microsoft Windows Antispyware Program (Beta)
http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/spyware/software/default.mspx
Next, do an Online scan here (if possible) -
http://www.pandasoftware.com/activescan/com/activescan_principal.htm
Make sure that you choose "fix" or "clean".
Download Pocket Killbox from
http://www.thespykiller.co.uk/files/killbox.exe
and put it on the desktop where you can find it easily
Download, install, and run HiJackThis - it is one of the most important
tools to help clean your system of scumware. Follow the instructions
carefully:
How to download and install HiJackThis: (it does not need to be updated)
http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/forums/topict309.html
Please DO NOT post your log to this newsgroup. It is important that you go
to one of the HiJackThis Support Forums below:
CastleCops HiJackThis Forum
http://castlecops.com/f67-Hijackthis_Spyware_Viruses_Worms_Trojans_Oh_My.html
or Bleeping Computer HiJackThis Forum
http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/forums/forum22.html
to allow the program experts there to evaluate your log and advise you of
any
necessary steps to clean your system.
(Note: Look for and read the "Important- Read This First" messages in the
sections for HiJackThis logs so that you follow proper procedure. You will
have to Register before posting on these Forums. Please follow all posting
instructions carefully to avoid having your log deleted or ignored.)
Also, please post a link to the forum where you post your HJT log back to
this thread so that we can follow your progress there.
CAUTION!!!!! Before you try to remove spyware using any of the programs
below, download a copy of LSPFIX from any of the following sites:
http://www.cexx.org/lspfix.htm
http://www.spychecker.com/program/winsockxpfix.html
(if your OS is Win2k or XP) The process of removing certain malware may kill
your internet connection. If this should occur, this program, LSPFIX, will
enable you to regain your connection.
You should also get a copy of WINSOCKXPFIX available at:
http://www.spychecker.com/program/winsockxpfix.html
and
WinsockXP Fix- WinXP
http://www.spychecker.com/program/winsockxpfix.html
with instructions, at
http://www.iup.edu/house/resnet/winfix.shtm
also... From LavaSoft- all versions of Windows-
http://digital-solutions.co.uk/lavasoft/whndnfix.zip
(NOTE: It is reported that in XP SP2, the command netsh winsock reset
will fix this problem without the need for these programs.)
or Winsock Fix Utility
http://www.dfwonline.net/files/WinsockFix.zip
How to Restart in Safe Mode
http://service1.symantec.com/SUPPORT/tsgeninfo.nsf/docid/2001052409420406
How to Show Hidden Files
http://snipurl.com/6rl8
After you have completed the above and made sure your system is free of any
scumware, if the problem persists then try doing a repair of your IE/OE
according to the following, using whichever methods if for the version of
Windows you are using.
First, disable your AV
How To Repair Windows 2000:
Windows 2000 step by step repair instructions:
http://www.windowsreinstall.com/install/win2k/repairw2k/page1.htm
How to perform an "in place upgrade" or system repair.
http://www.techspot.com/vb/showthread.php?threadid=8356
Difference between Manual and Fast repair
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=238359
You will need to uninstall any post IE6-SP1 Win2K SPs before you
uninstall/reinstall IE. You will also have to go to the Windows Update and
reinstall all the necessary updates after the reinstall.
or..
How to Reinstall or Repair Internet Explorer and Outlook Express in Windows
XP
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=318378
SP2 section:
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=318378#XSLTH3130121123120121120120
The section
Windows XP and Windows XP SP1: Edit the registry and install Internet
Explorer 6 works on earlier versions of Windows.
Be sure to visit Windows Update site and let it scan for all needed updates
and service packs afterward for either OS.
Hope this helps.
Jan
MS MVP - IE/OE
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